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2012 honda cr-z Model Overview

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The Honda CR-Z hybrid hatch hearkens back to the classic Honda CRX. As one of Honda’s newest hybrid offerings, the CR-Z shares some of its underpinnings with fellow Honda stablemates including the Fit and Insight.

The sporty two-seat CR-Z hybrid is fairly new in the lineup, so not much has changed for 2012 Honda CR-Z except for new color combinations in Crystal Black Pearl models. The CR-Z is powered by a version of Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, featuring a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 14-hp electric motor. Together they produce a total output of 122 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque. EPA numbers are good for this hybrid, but if you’re looking for outright economy, the Civic Hybrid or Insight would be a better choice.

Exclusive to the CR-Z is the three-mode drive system that tailors throttle and steering response for sporty, normal or fuel saving performance. Just like in the new Insight and Civic hybrid, the CR-Z comes with efficiency tools, including Eco Assist and Eco Scoring, which lets drivers know whether they reach optimum driving economy with a set of color codes that illuminate behind the digital speedometer. Drivers can then compare their efficient driving styles to previous trips, or over the vehicle’s life.

For 2012, the stylish sport hybrid CR-Z coupe looks even sportier, with the available Crystal Black Pearl exterior color. For those that choose the dark hue, the two-seater’s bucket seats are now available in exclusive black fabric, rather than the silver mesh seat fabric that is paired with all other colors. Other than the snazzy new black seats, little else is new for Honda’s smallest hybrid in the 2012 model year.

Intentionally designed to resemble the style, stance and the two-seat hatchback style of the original CRX, the CR-Z blends sporty with eco-friendly rather well. Other design cues were taken from the first-generation Insight and FCX Clarity to ultimately produce the hybrid coupe. Its longish front overhang and rakish roofline give it an aerodynamic, stylish design. EX models get auto on/off HID headlights and fog lights.

The Honda CR-Z features automatic climate control, a six-speaker audio system and CD player, USB input, power windows and locks, and keyless entry come standard on all models. The CR-Z EX comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel complete with integrated controls, Bluetooth hands-free interface, alloy pedals, ambient lighting, and polished interior accents. A 6.5-inch screen with navigation and voice activation is available on EX models. All CR-Zs come with a hidden storage area that is located directly behind the seats, so small personal items can be kept out of sight.

The CR-Z looks like a go-fast car, but its hybrid powertrain delivers only modest performance. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder combined with the electric motor only produces 122 hp, but we found the 6-speed manual transmission gives acceleration a little more pep, with 0-60 mph time of 8.3 seconds onto a quarter mile time of 16.4 seconds @ 83.6 mph. The more fuel-efficient CVT comes equipped with paddle shifters, and exclusive to CR-Zs is a special three-mode drive system that provides for regular, sporty, and fuel-saving vehicle performance.

The utmost in safety comes standard in all CR-Zs, starting with Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) structure that maximizes occupant protection in frontal collisions. Driver and passenger have dual stage, multi threshold front and front side airbags, and seat belt reminders. Side curtain airbags and traction/stability control also come standard, along with daytime running lights, a tire pressure monitoring system, and all three of Honda’s braking aids: anti-lock braking (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), and brake assist.

2012 Honda CR-Z Pricing

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

$20,345

Certified Pre Owned Pricewhat is this?

$11,675

Certified Pre-Owned Price is the approximate price a consumer can expect to pay at a dealership for a used vehicle that has passed the manufacturer's certification process. This price applies only to vehicles covered under an automaker's CPO program, not to a dealership's own "certified" used price.

Recalls

Recall ID#16V061000 - AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE INFLATOR MODULE

Consequence

In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Honda will notify owners, and dealers will replace the inflator, free of charge. Remedy parts are expected to be available in Summer 2016. Interim notices will be mailed to owners during March 2016. Owners will receive a second notice when remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138. Honda's numbers for this recall are JY0, JY1, and JY2.

2012 Honda CR-Z News and Reviews

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